Seniors swim the moat after last practice

CLEMSON -- From the time that Clemson players arrive on campus as freshmen, they have to cross the moat that surrounds the practice fields behind the Jervey Athletic Center on their way to and from practice each day.

As a result, on their final day of practice at the Clemson practice fields, the seniors sometimes elect to cross the moat one final time in their own way.

For seven Clemson seniors on Tuesday, that meant swimming across despite the cold and rainy conditions.

Senior defensive tackle Rennie MooreRennie MooreRS Sr. Defensive Tackle#94 6-3, 265Saint Marys, GAView Full Profile, known for his outdoor activities, declined to cross the moat for what he called health reasons. "I am sure someone has tinkled in that water and I ain't getting in it," Moore quipped to the media as he crossed on foot.

"It’s kind of a rite of passage," said Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney. "I’m happy for those guys. It’s always a bittersweet day [last practice].... knowing you are not going to be on this field again with these guys. It’s kind of sad, but I’m happy for them. They have been a great group of seniors. No doubt they left this place better than they found it."